0410.015.00  Income

When determining need, take into account all income available during the period under consideration. “Available income” is income that actually exists and is usable by the claimant. Income is available when it is received regularly according to some fixed or steady patter, indicating its continuity can be foretold.

NOTE: When the claimant is potentially eligible for OASDI payments, SSI benefits, or for Veteran's Benefits, but refuses to apply for such benefits, reject or close the case until the claimant has filed an application for such benefits.

0410.015.05  Earned Income

Regulation 40-2.050 defines “earned income” as income in cash or kind currently earned as wages, salary, commissions, or as profits from any business in which the claimant engages as a self-employed person or employee, so long as he has responsibilities which require continuing activity on his/her part.

The following are some of the possible sources of earned income:

1. Wages,
2. Boarders or lodgers,
3. Income or earnings from self-employment,
4. Sale of business products,
5. Sale of farm or garden products, and
6. Income in kind for services rendered.